If you go

Where to stay

Accommodations at La Iguana Perdida, in Santa Cruz La Laguna, range from dorm beds ($6 a night) to "luxury" suites with private baths ($43 a night). The hostel attracts a friendly and diverse group of backpackers, couples and local retirees during nightly communal dinners (laiguanaperdida.com).

Laguna Lodge Eco-Resort & Nature Reserve in Panajachel is a six-suite luxury eco-lodge equipped with on-site spa, restaurant and lake-view yoga classes (from $180; thelagunalodge.com).

What to do

Proyecto Mosaico, a German nonprofit group, offers monthlong volunteer opportunities with the Lema weaving co-op in San Juan. They can also arrange Spanish classes, airport transportation and lodging with a host family (not included in their nearly $280 fee). Volunteers are expected to work a full-time week, from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. daily (promosaico.org).

More information

To arrange tours or for more information about textiles in San Juan La Laguna, visit sanjuanla­laguna.org.

Maya Kroth